Though the film lacks the star power that many independent movies are garnering these days, Frozen River is not to be outdone in the slightest. Showcasing a surprise performance by veteran actor Melissa Leo, director Courtney Hunt exerts her heart and soul into the film. As a result, she is able to create a story that successfully combines the forces of emotion, suspense and struggle, accumulating at just the right moment to form a stellar film that is not to be missed by anyone.
As the film starts out, we are introduced to rough and raw Ray Eddy, a newly-single mother of two who wants nothing more than to get the double-wide home that she has been promising her sons for months. It is two days before Christmas, but her husband has ventured off on one of his gambling escapades, leaving her with no money and no way out. Tired of the same routine, Ray does something that very few women in film get to do "“ she never shows a sign of tears or remorse as she forgets the man who has caused her so much heartache; instead, working on forwarding her life and the life of her two boys.
Creating a strong force on the screen, Ray Eddy is brought to life by the wonderful yet underappreciated Melissa Leo. Using a full range of emotion and delivery, Leo gives a breathtaking performance, stealing every scene that she is in and helping to make this film what it is "¦ a masterful piece of art. Capitalizing on every line of dialogue and every movement, Leo gives the performance of her life as she delivers the best performance thus far this year.
Even though her entire performance is startling real and undeniably brilliant, it is her ability to make you think that helps give the film a much needed edge. With her back against the wall, Ray turns to smuggling illegal immigrants across the frozen St. Lawrence River, and while you want to root for her success, you can't help but feel disgusted with her actions. The end result sends chills up your spine as you ponder yourself in the same situation, torn between living the 'American' dream and the fate that awaits at the bottom of the glassy river.
In addition to Leo, you can't forget Misty Upham, who turns in a solid performance as Lila Littlewolf, Ray's smuggling counterpart. To Lila, the act of smuggling immigrants is normal. In fact, it is a way of life. And though she was outshined for much of the film, you can't deny her importance to the story as she allows you to see and understand those that consider the practice an acceptable way to make a living.
And you can't forget the mastermind behind the camera, Courtney Hunt. Charged with writing and directing the feature, Hunt successfully captures the raw and real emotion of both lead characters as they each struggle through their own hardships, silently becoming each others main confidant. Moreover, Hunt was able to sense and grasp the visually stunning landscapes that comprise the northeast, revealing a startling background for the gripping tale that she vividly creates.
When put together, all three ladies mesh perfectly, accumulating their assets and presenting a story and film that will educate, inspire and transform all who watch. From the impeccable premise to the inventive and addicting performance from Leo, the film is full of struggles and triumphs, representing the art of real"“life to utter perfection.
